A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Nelson for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Da Nang or Nelson?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Da Nang or Nelson? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a accessible, authentic, and coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Da Nang travel costs.

Nelson

Nelson is a natural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. The beauty of Nelson is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nelson travel costs.

Da Nang and Nelson: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Nelson?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nelson than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Nelson, Nelson has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nelson is very popular for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang attracts visitors for its nightlife and resorts. Nelson is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its stunning national parks, beautiful coastline, and outdoor adventures. It is also well known for Abel Tasman National Park. Da Nang is famous for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Nelson?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nelson and Da Nang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Nelson?

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Da Nang and Nelson.

Da Nang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nelson. While most people spend their time enjoying the nature-oriented activities, there are several museums in the area as well. Founder's Heritage Park Museum is a village-like setting that you can explore. There's also the Nelson Classic Car Museum and local art and craft galleries that are fun to walk through.

Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Nelson? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Da Nang and Nelson.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Nelson has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local ingredients, vineyards, and craft breweries all make the foodie scene around town interesting. There are many great restaurants that offer seasonal menus that change with the season. Eating is an experience in town, and locals take pride in the food they produce.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Nelson is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Da Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Nelson. The city attracts a good tourist crowd, and there are bars and clubs that keep things interesting late into the evening.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Nelson is not a resort destination.

In Da Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Nelson is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Beaches?

Nelson is terrific for the beach. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Nelson. Beaches in the area are sandy and most are great for swimming. There are many water sports available as well such as kayaking, kite surfing, and paddleboarding. You'll find locals and tourists alike hanging out at the beach and enjoying a barbecue.

Many people head to Da Nang to enjoy the beach. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Hiking?

Nelson is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

People visit Nelson specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The area is filled with walking and hiking trails that wander along the coast and soak up the spectacular views. There are also three national parks in the area that are filled with trails. Abel Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park, and Nelson Lakes National Park each have their own environments and scenery to explore.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Nelson?

Nelson is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Nelson offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekly markets in the area and a variety of retail shops where you can pick up anything you might need.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Nelson More Beautiful?

Nelson is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Nelson is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is surrounded by beautiful scenery and wonderful outdoor environments.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Families?

Nelson is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Nelson is a very family-friendly destination. Surrounded by family-friendly national parks, this city has a number of things for kids to do. In particularly, Abel Tasman National Park is a highlight for kids, with canoeing, sailing and other activities. Kids will also enjoy a visit to Cable Bay Adventure Park or seeing the historically themed Founders Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Da Nang. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Couples?

Nelson is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Nelson makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Wilderness, national parks, beaches, and mountain scenery make this a wonderful couples destination. The area also has beautiful vineyards and gardens as well hiking and outdoor adventures.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nelson is terrific for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Nelson. There are many hostels in the area as well as outdoor activities and adventure sports that backpackers will love.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Da Nang or Nelson Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Da Nang is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Nelson is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Da Nang has a few public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Nelson. The city has a local bus network, but to efficiently explore everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

Is Da Nang or Nelson a more walkable city?

Nelson is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Nelson is a very walkable city. There are many great walks in the area and its a wonderful way to get around.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Nelson Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nelson or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Nelson?

In either Da Nang or Nelson, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nelson than Da Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nelson.

Families should spend more time in Nelson than Da Nang. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nelson, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nelson than Da Nang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nelson that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nelson than Da Nang if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Nelson.

One day in Da Nang or Nelson?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nelson, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Da Nang or Nelson?

Da Nang is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Nelson, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Da Nang or Nelson?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nelson is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nelson has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Nelson?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Da Nang. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nelson. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nelson. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Da Nang and Nelson, we can see that Nelson is more expensive. And not only is Da Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Da Nang is in Asia and Nelson is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Da Nang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Da Nang and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Nelson would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nelson than you might in Da Nang.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Da Nang Expensive? and Is Nelson Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Nelson?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nelson. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Nelson, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.